SEMBACH, Germany -- A group of Soldiers from DENTAC Italy volunteered to assist in the "Save Venice" cleanup and recovery efforts following the historic flooding that struck Venice, Italy recently.
The dental Soldiers were part of a larger group from U.S. Army Garrison Italy who participated in the cleanup event. The event was sponsored by the Better Opportunity for Single Soldiers program.
The Soldiers traveled to Venice on Dec. 7 and spent the day moving debris, trash and furniture to a waiting barge so it could be disposed of properly.
DENTAC Italy Soldiers participating in the "Save Venice" event were: Sgt. 1st Class David Allan Doan, Spc. Adricka Duggins, Pfc. Jacob Offei, Pvt. Diana Hernandez, and Pvt. Agnes Pelayo.
According to Sgt. 1st Class David Allan Doan, "When I heard about the flooding in Venice I knew I wanted to do something to help out. Just being able to help clean up the streets so that life can get back to normal again."
"A local elderly man ran up to us and spoke Italian to me. I didn't understand what he was asking but I knew he needed our help for something. I grabbed some volunteers and followed him to his home to help remove a ruined mattress that he couldn't have lifted on his own," said Doan.
The damage from the flooding in Venice was substantial. The floodwaters in the city reached an unexpected high of 187 cm (6 feet) above sea level. Countless cultural treasures -- palaces, libraries, and churches -- remained partially submerged for days in the salty, polluted water.
Another DENTAC Italy volunteer, Pfc. Jacob Offei said, "Volunteering over the weekend to help clean the city of Venice had a positive impact on my life."
He added, "It was fun picking up the heavy logs and I enjoyed socializing with the people I volunteered with. I am proud to be part of the team that helped in cleanup."
The mission of the BOSS program is to enhance the morale and welfare of single Soldiers, increase retention and sustain combat readiness. BOSS is the collective voice of single Soldiers through the chain of command, which serves as a tool for commanders to gauge the morale of single Soldiers regarding quality of life issues.
To learn more about BOSS, visit: https://www.armymwr.com/programs-and-services/boss/about-boss
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